“Having a scientific background will provide a strong skill set and expertise to critically approach and solve threats to our earth in the future”
Daniella Conser is an Earth Science student currently completing her degree at Monash University. She has a passion for science and encouraging young women in STEMM. With a love for the environment and sustainability as well as the importance of science, she hopes to understand the earth and its processes to better protect the planet for future generations. Volunteering for environmental organisations and student initiatives, she believes in the power of people and education to foster change. She’s inspired and encouraged by Australia’s Women in STEMM and hopes to continue progress from the path they’ve paved. Daniella hopes to use her passion to spread science education, and is driven to see a more sustainable future with more women and girls acknowledged and encouraged in STEMM education and workforce.
If you could give one piece of advice to the current government what would it be?
I would advise the current government to allocate more funding toward science research and climate change mitigation strategies. Having an educated, scientifically literate nation is critical for future progression and will aid in efforts to combat and understand climate change. Climate change poses a fundamental threat to our earth and livelihoods and thus it’s necessary that the government use its power to evoke change. I believe that the government should implement and improve policy, funding and resources toward the impending crisis and make more decisions with the next generation’s futures in their consciousness’; for a sustainable nation in all domains.
Who and/or what inspires you to achieve?
I’m very fortunate to live in a country where with access to education, resources and granted opportunities as a young woman. Having these opportunities at my disposal inspires me to use them and help those who aren’t in the same situation to evoke the change I want to see. Furthermore, foremothers in STEMM who have paved the way for women like me to enter this domain inspire me and I want to follow in their footsteps. Lastly, my grandparents sought refuge as immigrants post World War II, working tirelessly without complaint. Their determination and hard work amidst adversity is a constant source of motivation.
What is the most important advice you have ever been given?
To live life reflecting the concept of sonder. Sonder; the profound realisation that everyone’s life is as complex as your own. Understanding that everyone has their own experiences, relationships, routines, their own journey and place in that at each moment. Having this outlook has really impacted the way I view and approach situations as well as people’s perspectives and choices. Reflecting upon one’s own place and growing from experiences, while having respect and understanding for others. Moreover, ensure to treat everyone the way you’d want to be treated, as you don’t know where they are in their equally complex life.
What inspired you to study and pursue STEMM? Have you always liked it.
The earth and its natural wonders have fascinated me since I was a child. Digging for fossils in my backyard, collecting crystals or captivated by the sky’s wonders through the telescope with my dad, I knew I wanted to understand the planet I stood on and universe surrounding me. Understanding the complexities of our world has continued as I’ve grown, however, developed further into the conservation and protection of our earth once I was informed of its degradation. Having a scientific background will provide a strong skill set and expertise to critically approach and solve threats to our earth in the future.
What is your ideal holiday – and do you work on your holiday?
I would love to both travel and work abroad and my list of places I dream to eventually visit is long, so it is difficult to narrow down. However, if I had to choose, my ideal holiday would be an exploration around Egypt. Alongside my fascination and love for the earth I’ve always been captivated by Egyptian history and archaeology. I’d absolutely love the chance to respectfully explore its ancient relics, museums and significant historical sites. Furthermore, if there was an archaeological dig or similar opportunity, I’d love the chance to participate.